The kids left today for school. They will only be there an hour today, but I noticed something in the house after they left. And it was quite remarkable.
In their absence I have found... peace and quiet.
So much of it, in fact, there's enough here for me to fashion together some semblence of sanity again. And this year my precious twosome will be gone all day, every day. That means other than when I work, there will be this much peace and quiet every single day!
I feel like a human being again.
Tomorrow, as I launch them on the bus for their first full day of grade one and grade four, I think I'll skipping down the street back home.
Yup. It's the most wonderful time of the year!
Wednesday, August 30, 2006
Tuesday, August 29, 2006
Houses Smouses...
We looked at three houses today.
Two were in Martensville. One was an absolute no - the hair dressing spot in the basement requires a bit of renovations to get the space workable again.
The other was nothing special. I liked the layout, hated the cupboards. Hole in floor of livingroom was unusual. It just needed a bit of work.
The third was on the far outer rim on houses on the Westside - in a quaint little area called Montgomery. The area is (normally) highly desirable, unless you're in the outer rim. A trailer park was across the street. While the house was ok, it wasn't spectacular and just not quite what we were looking for.
So the hunt is still on... We have one more house in Martensville to look at tomorrow. Stay tuned...
Two were in Martensville. One was an absolute no - the hair dressing spot in the basement requires a bit of renovations to get the space workable again.
The other was nothing special. I liked the layout, hated the cupboards. Hole in floor of livingroom was unusual. It just needed a bit of work.
The third was on the far outer rim on houses on the Westside - in a quaint little area called Montgomery. The area is (normally) highly desirable, unless you're in the outer rim. A trailer park was across the street. While the house was ok, it wasn't spectacular and just not quite what we were looking for.
So the hunt is still on... We have one more house in Martensville to look at tomorrow. Stay tuned...
The non-dental dental visit
My dear son went to the dentist today for his first filling. This is part one of a two part series. He has another appointment on Friday for the final two fillings.
I had visions of this being a horrific disaster. Public humiliation is something he can be very good at. And it's been a few years since I have experienced it. Further, there are sharp, medical instruments within easy reach.
But Logan seemed pretty non-plussed by the whole affair, so I thought... hey, this might actually be ok.
So we get there and Logan sits in the big chair. Mikaela and I are but an arms-length away. The dental assistant starts explaining what they are going to do. You know the shpeil, the needle is going to feel like a mosquito bite, etc.
I brace myself. If we can get through this part, we should be ok, I tell myself.
The doctor comes in and preps.
I hold my little buddy's hand and start praying.
Nothing.
I open my eyes to see if he's ok and he's doing fine. The doctor and the assistant give him lots of encouragement and then announce they're all done. I'm like great. No problem.
But a little twinge of anxiety ripples through me when she says, "Now for the next one."
Right. He's having two fillings done. Ok. Here we go again.
He grips my hand a little tighter this time and I whisper a prayer that we can get through another one. I talk to Logan a little more about how brave he is and how well he's doing.
He squirms a bit, but gets through the second needle without incident.
Ha! I thought to myself. All my days of worry and sleepless night had been for no reason at all. Everything will be fine.
Yeah. By now, you realize this is not the end of the story.
Nope. They start talking rain coats and buttons and rings and fillings. I looked at my son's face.
Uh-oh...
In the space of a few short moments I realize the appointment is over. I try desperately to calm him down, but no good. It's like he doesn't hear me. I try calling my mom on my cell phone, in hopes that she can calm him down. He's crying and begging and begging to go home.
While I'm sure I looked calm enough, I can tell you I was in full on panic. You see, I saw the look, I heard the urgency in his voice. He either had to calm down or get out of the situation. Fast! Like now! Or we were all in big trouble.
But my mom is out of the house, so no help.
We talk to the doctor and it is agreed that we would give it one more chance at his second appointment on Friday. This time with a sedative. If that doesn't work, he'll be referred to the hospital dental and they'll have to put him under to do the fillings.
Yikes.
So my hyper-sensitive child is going to have to chug down two medicines on Friday. One tastes like mint, the other... not so much.
I'm thinking this should be fun. I'm hoping the medicine is clear, because I have this vague feeling I'm going to be wearing it. I hope it doesn't stain.
I'm thinking in the end I might need the sedation.
I had visions of this being a horrific disaster. Public humiliation is something he can be very good at. And it's been a few years since I have experienced it. Further, there are sharp, medical instruments within easy reach.
But Logan seemed pretty non-plussed by the whole affair, so I thought... hey, this might actually be ok.
So we get there and Logan sits in the big chair. Mikaela and I are but an arms-length away. The dental assistant starts explaining what they are going to do. You know the shpeil, the needle is going to feel like a mosquito bite, etc.
I brace myself. If we can get through this part, we should be ok, I tell myself.
The doctor comes in and preps.
I hold my little buddy's hand and start praying.
Nothing.
I open my eyes to see if he's ok and he's doing fine. The doctor and the assistant give him lots of encouragement and then announce they're all done. I'm like great. No problem.
But a little twinge of anxiety ripples through me when she says, "Now for the next one."
Right. He's having two fillings done. Ok. Here we go again.
He grips my hand a little tighter this time and I whisper a prayer that we can get through another one. I talk to Logan a little more about how brave he is and how well he's doing.
He squirms a bit, but gets through the second needle without incident.
Ha! I thought to myself. All my days of worry and sleepless night had been for no reason at all. Everything will be fine.
Yeah. By now, you realize this is not the end of the story.
Nope. They start talking rain coats and buttons and rings and fillings. I looked at my son's face.
Uh-oh...
In the space of a few short moments I realize the appointment is over. I try desperately to calm him down, but no good. It's like he doesn't hear me. I try calling my mom on my cell phone, in hopes that she can calm him down. He's crying and begging and begging to go home.
While I'm sure I looked calm enough, I can tell you I was in full on panic. You see, I saw the look, I heard the urgency in his voice. He either had to calm down or get out of the situation. Fast! Like now! Or we were all in big trouble.
But my mom is out of the house, so no help.
We talk to the doctor and it is agreed that we would give it one more chance at his second appointment on Friday. This time with a sedative. If that doesn't work, he'll be referred to the hospital dental and they'll have to put him under to do the fillings.
Yikes.
So my hyper-sensitive child is going to have to chug down two medicines on Friday. One tastes like mint, the other... not so much.
I'm thinking this should be fun. I'm hoping the medicine is clear, because I have this vague feeling I'm going to be wearing it. I hope it doesn't stain.
I'm thinking in the end I might need the sedation.
Monday, August 28, 2006
The hunt is on...
Back to house-hunting...
Richard and I have found few more houses we hope to take a look at. One of them is what one might call Richard's dream home. It's a cute little two-story Victorian number complete with veranda.
In Martensville.
Martensville.
That's like outside the city, right?
I'm not overly keen, but the house is adorable. We shall see what transpires. Keeping you posted on the continuing drama!
Richard and I have found few more houses we hope to take a look at. One of them is what one might call Richard's dream home. It's a cute little two-story Victorian number complete with veranda.
In Martensville.
Martensville.
That's like outside the city, right?
I'm not overly keen, but the house is adorable. We shall see what transpires. Keeping you posted on the continuing drama!
Sunday, August 27, 2006
Let's talk football
Those of us in Rider Nation who were beginning to lose heart, had a very strange experience last night.
We got to watch a team be slaughtered last night on the football field and that team wasn't us!
For pete's sake I watched three fumbles in a row and none of them were from the green-and-white! That just doesn't happen. Rocky Butler did an outstanding job - and by that I mean there were actual passes and completions and touch downs going on! It's like the Roughriders went out and learned football all of a sudden.
CTV actually ran with the headline: Roughriders crush Hamilton
Can you believe Roughriders and "crush" were used in the same sentence and we were the ones doing the crushing?
Now having been on more than our fair share of good whoopins I have to say I felt for Hamilton. I felt for the coaches. I felt especially for the fans. Man do I know what it is like to watch your beloved team stumble, fumble and bumble their way from one loss to the next. I hope they can get things figured out soon.
Meanwhile, the green-and-white have won two games in a row now. In Riderville that's a hot streak.
I have to say this whole winning thing is something I could get used to! I'd forgotten how much fun it was. I hope the guys enjoy their well-deserved victory. And I also hope they start to like this whole winning thing as much as the fans do!
Cuz, I know me, personally, I could stand a few more of those winning things. Bring 'em on!
Go Green!
We got to watch a team be slaughtered last night on the football field and that team wasn't us!
For pete's sake I watched three fumbles in a row and none of them were from the green-and-white! That just doesn't happen. Rocky Butler did an outstanding job - and by that I mean there were actual passes and completions and touch downs going on! It's like the Roughriders went out and learned football all of a sudden.
CTV actually ran with the headline: Roughriders crush Hamilton
Can you believe Roughriders and "crush" were used in the same sentence and we were the ones doing the crushing?
Now having been on more than our fair share of good whoopins I have to say I felt for Hamilton. I felt for the coaches. I felt especially for the fans. Man do I know what it is like to watch your beloved team stumble, fumble and bumble their way from one loss to the next. I hope they can get things figured out soon.
Meanwhile, the green-and-white have won two games in a row now. In Riderville that's a hot streak.
I have to say this whole winning thing is something I could get used to! I'd forgotten how much fun it was. I hope the guys enjoy their well-deserved victory. And I also hope they start to like this whole winning thing as much as the fans do!
Cuz, I know me, personally, I could stand a few more of those winning things. Bring 'em on!
Go Green!
Saturday, August 26, 2006
Blessings
Much of what I'm thinking today comes from the book we are studying this fall as a church. It's called Second Guessing God - Hanging On When You Can't See His Plan.
When I heard the title of the book I thought, Oh boy, this book is for you, J.J.
The last year or two of my life have been some of the most intensely painful I've ever endured. I've lost a dream job and all the financial security and personal fulfillment that it brought. I lost a dear friend. A family relationship was badly damaged. My husband developed chronic health issues. And my son began acting out with uncontrolled rages again.
The rug has been pulled out from under me so often I thought after a while I'd just stay on the ground and wallow in my despair. It seemed easier, besides it's much less painful to fall from down here. My heart felt like it was being slowly cut into pieces. Not since my divorce have I faced such seemingly unending personal traumas and conflict.
I've often looked around and wondered, Why, God? Why?
Yet in the midst of my anguish and fury, God has never seemed so eerily silent or so distant to me as he has these last months. I've tried to stumble on, but it's hard when the journey is dark and the road is rough.
It's hard for me to look at all those heart-wrenching experiences and believe that God has a purpose in all that. I've journaled, I've prayed, I've read, I've ranted to friends, family and a therapist. All to no avail.
I haven't conquered any of those traumas. The loss of my job, even though it was only a temporary assignment, still haunts me (and our finances).
The loss of my friend still makes the world a teensy bit lonelier every day. The family relationship is still weird and awkward. Dear hubby's problems cause our family added stress. And our wonderful son and his outbursts have caused me to shed more tears than I care to think about.
There are days when I pray but the words sound hollow even to my ears and instead of feeling like I've got God's ear, I feel like I'm talking to a cold stone statue. So my prayers have become short. And most of my conversations with God consist of praise and worship songs I sing with. Though it's usually accompanied by a short, "I don't really feel like worshipping you, God, but You are worthy of my praise no matter what."
Because even if God never answers another one of my prayerful pleas, even if he never comforts another of my heart wrenching sobs... even if all the days of my life were torturous and miserable, God would still deserve my praise.
I keep taking those awkward, stumbling steps down a dimly lit rocky path. Some days are better than others. Most days, like today, I feel like I'm face down in the sand.
I titled this post blessings for a reason. It might not seem like an applicable title, but you see there times like this in a spiritual desert, in painful journeys of our lives when what is unimportant is stripped away. It doesn't matter. The blessing is what's truly important remains. Our priorities become more focused in a way that is not possible in the good times.
When I heard the title of the book I thought, Oh boy, this book is for you, J.J.
The last year or two of my life have been some of the most intensely painful I've ever endured. I've lost a dream job and all the financial security and personal fulfillment that it brought. I lost a dear friend. A family relationship was badly damaged. My husband developed chronic health issues. And my son began acting out with uncontrolled rages again.
The rug has been pulled out from under me so often I thought after a while I'd just stay on the ground and wallow in my despair. It seemed easier, besides it's much less painful to fall from down here. My heart felt like it was being slowly cut into pieces. Not since my divorce have I faced such seemingly unending personal traumas and conflict.
I've often looked around and wondered, Why, God? Why?
Yet in the midst of my anguish and fury, God has never seemed so eerily silent or so distant to me as he has these last months. I've tried to stumble on, but it's hard when the journey is dark and the road is rough.
It's hard for me to look at all those heart-wrenching experiences and believe that God has a purpose in all that. I've journaled, I've prayed, I've read, I've ranted to friends, family and a therapist. All to no avail.
I haven't conquered any of those traumas. The loss of my job, even though it was only a temporary assignment, still haunts me (and our finances).
The loss of my friend still makes the world a teensy bit lonelier every day. The family relationship is still weird and awkward. Dear hubby's problems cause our family added stress. And our wonderful son and his outbursts have caused me to shed more tears than I care to think about.
There are days when I pray but the words sound hollow even to my ears and instead of feeling like I've got God's ear, I feel like I'm talking to a cold stone statue. So my prayers have become short. And most of my conversations with God consist of praise and worship songs I sing with. Though it's usually accompanied by a short, "I don't really feel like worshipping you, God, but You are worthy of my praise no matter what."
Because even if God never answers another one of my prayerful pleas, even if he never comforts another of my heart wrenching sobs... even if all the days of my life were torturous and miserable, God would still deserve my praise.
I keep taking those awkward, stumbling steps down a dimly lit rocky path. Some days are better than others. Most days, like today, I feel like I'm face down in the sand.
I titled this post blessings for a reason. It might not seem like an applicable title, but you see there times like this in a spiritual desert, in painful journeys of our lives when what is unimportant is stripped away. It doesn't matter. The blessing is what's truly important remains. Our priorities become more focused in a way that is not possible in the good times.
I've never fully understood James 1:2 - 4 like I do now.
Consider it all joy, my brethren, when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance. And let endurance have it's perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.
Yes, there is purpose here. There is blessing here.
When God speaks
When the book you're reading and your email devotional for the day are both sitting in front of you and they both reference the same Bible verse, I think it's time to take notice. Perhaps a little chime should play too.
James 4:14:
You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For your life is like the morning fog–it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. (New Believer’s Bible)
What is your life? You are mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. (New International Version)
What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. (Contemporary English Version)
Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. (New American Standard)
Perhaps I have spent too much time recently worrying about things that really aren't important. Life is the art of keeping the important things, the important things.
Do you remember 9/11? Who could forget right? It's such an extreme example, yet during that day it was impossible not to have crystal clarity on what was important. I'm sure I wasn't the only one who called members of their family. I probably wasn't the only one who put the regular stresses and worries of the day on hold.
I am guilty of allowing my day to be eaten up by worries of tomorrow - what we shall eat and what we shall wear. It's so easy to get caught up in striving after the things the world tries to tell us are important - money, clothes, cars, boats, bikes, houses, phones, computers, gadgets, etc.
It's all an illusion.
What's truly important in life can't be measure in dollar amounts. I'm slowly learning.
James 4:14:
You do not know what will happen tomorrow. For your life is like the morning fog–it’s here a little while, then it’s gone. (New Believer’s Bible)
What is your life? You are mist that appears for a little while and then vanishes. (New International Version)
What do you know about tomorrow? How can you be so sure about your life? It is nothing more than mist that appears for only a little while before it disappears. (Contemporary English Version)
Yet you do not know what your life will be like tomorrow. You are just a vapor that appears for a little while and then vanishes away. (New American Standard)
Perhaps I have spent too much time recently worrying about things that really aren't important. Life is the art of keeping the important things, the important things.
Do you remember 9/11? Who could forget right? It's such an extreme example, yet during that day it was impossible not to have crystal clarity on what was important. I'm sure I wasn't the only one who called members of their family. I probably wasn't the only one who put the regular stresses and worries of the day on hold.
I am guilty of allowing my day to be eaten up by worries of tomorrow - what we shall eat and what we shall wear. It's so easy to get caught up in striving after the things the world tries to tell us are important - money, clothes, cars, boats, bikes, houses, phones, computers, gadgets, etc.
It's all an illusion.
What's truly important in life can't be measure in dollar amounts. I'm slowly learning.
Friday, August 18, 2006
Be vewy, vewy quiet...
Shhhh... we're hunting...
No. Not wascally wabbits. We're house hunting actually. We are officially one week into the hunt. So let's recap:
Sunday: Saw four houses. Hate one. Loved one. Two were so-so. The one we loved already had a deal pending, but it wasn't looking like it was going to go through.
Monday night: Saw two houses. One was fabulous, but out of our range. The other was completely creepy. I don't think any urban dwelling should boast a chopping block in the back yard, but that's just me.
Tuesday 3 p.m.: Received official notice the deal on "the house we loved" had fallen through. Decided to put in a bid. Five other showings of the house are to occur this evening.
Tuesday 5:00 p.m.: Met with realtor and put together offer.
Tuesday 6:00 p.m.: Offer completed.
Tuesday 6:31 p.m.: Began waiting on pins and needles.
Tuesday 6:32 p.m.: Still waiting...
Tuesday 6:35p.m.: On phone with bank to raise limit on our line of credit to accomodate some expected expenses.
Tuesday 6:50 p.m.: My frustration level has reached maximum levels and a small warning sound is starting to throb in my head.
Tuesday 7:35 p.m.: Still on phone with bank and warning sounds are now at critical volume. "Negative net worth" is said over and over.
Tuesday 7:36 p.m.: Hubby is on phone with bank. I'm taking advil.
Tuesday 7:45 p.m.: Bank "reluctantly" agrees to release funds. Hubby and I "reluctantly" agree to meet with them the next day.
Tuesday 9:55 p.m.: Receive official word sellers have rejected our offer and gone with another. The other offer was for the same money but quicker possession date.
Wednesday noon: Cancel appointment with bank so as to spare some innocent bank teller the brunt of my wrath. Yes, we will reschedule when I don't stand the risk of speaking in an uncivil manner.
Wednesday afternoon: Decided not to house hunt anymore!
Wednesday about ten minutes later: Changed mind.
Nothing else happened this week. Which is good. I need a few more days to fully recover from our close brush with home ownership.
Fiction WIP (work in progress) word count: 1368
Non-fiction assignment count: 3 (all due before September 12)
No. Not wascally wabbits. We're house hunting actually. We are officially one week into the hunt. So let's recap:
Sunday: Saw four houses. Hate one. Loved one. Two were so-so. The one we loved already had a deal pending, but it wasn't looking like it was going to go through.
Monday night: Saw two houses. One was fabulous, but out of our range. The other was completely creepy. I don't think any urban dwelling should boast a chopping block in the back yard, but that's just me.
Tuesday 3 p.m.: Received official notice the deal on "the house we loved" had fallen through. Decided to put in a bid. Five other showings of the house are to occur this evening.
Tuesday 5:00 p.m.: Met with realtor and put together offer.
Tuesday 6:00 p.m.: Offer completed.
Tuesday 6:31 p.m.: Began waiting on pins and needles.
Tuesday 6:32 p.m.: Still waiting...
Tuesday 6:35p.m.: On phone with bank to raise limit on our line of credit to accomodate some expected expenses.
Tuesday 6:50 p.m.: My frustration level has reached maximum levels and a small warning sound is starting to throb in my head.
Tuesday 7:35 p.m.: Still on phone with bank and warning sounds are now at critical volume. "Negative net worth" is said over and over.
Tuesday 7:36 p.m.: Hubby is on phone with bank. I'm taking advil.
Tuesday 7:45 p.m.: Bank "reluctantly" agrees to release funds. Hubby and I "reluctantly" agree to meet with them the next day.
Tuesday 9:55 p.m.: Receive official word sellers have rejected our offer and gone with another. The other offer was for the same money but quicker possession date.
Wednesday noon: Cancel appointment with bank so as to spare some innocent bank teller the brunt of my wrath. Yes, we will reschedule when I don't stand the risk of speaking in an uncivil manner.
Wednesday afternoon: Decided not to house hunt anymore!
Wednesday about ten minutes later: Changed mind.
Nothing else happened this week. Which is good. I need a few more days to fully recover from our close brush with home ownership.
Fiction WIP (work in progress) word count: 1368
Non-fiction assignment count: 3 (all due before September 12)
Wednesday, August 09, 2006
Switching gears
Ok. I know that big experiment for the summer was to see how many rejections I could get. Hmm... that didn't work out too well, since I didn't send out any queries. LOL!
I've been too busy enjoying my downtime.
I've also been struck by the muse - that would be the fiction-writing-muse who rarely, if ever, visits my house anymore. I've got the characters and a basic plot all outlined in my head. So I figured I'll just tie up this here muse and hold it for ransom til every last word is written! Bwa-ha-ha!
Word count so far: 1343.
Yay me!
I've been too busy enjoying my downtime.
I've also been struck by the muse - that would be the fiction-writing-muse who rarely, if ever, visits my house anymore. I've got the characters and a basic plot all outlined in my head. So I figured I'll just tie up this here muse and hold it for ransom til every last word is written! Bwa-ha-ha!
Word count so far: 1343.
Yay me!
Monday, August 07, 2006
Transition
I have just spent the better part of four days by myself. No kids. No hubby. Just me kicking around this house. I loved every minute of it.
Now, husband and said kids will be returning from a weekend of camping. (I couldn't go with them, because I had to review some Fringe plays. Darn it, anyway.) My mom should be in the city shortly to spend part of the day shopping. Then she will take kids home with her for two weeks of swimming lessons.
So I got up this morning, bathed and shaved my legs. I dressed in my most comfortable denim skirt. Then I began tidying my house - what I refer to as my Weekly Home Blessing Hour. After my house was thoroughly blessed I did a load of laundry and took out some chicken for supper.
Now sitting here with a cup of tea (and trying not to whine about my miserable cold), I'm relaxing and enjoying my fresh, clean smelling house.
In these few remaining quiet moments, I thought I should blog something.
Something profound.
...
Ok, I'll settle for just blogging something.
Enjoy your Monday holiday!
Now, husband and said kids will be returning from a weekend of camping. (I couldn't go with them, because I had to review some Fringe plays. Darn it, anyway.) My mom should be in the city shortly to spend part of the day shopping. Then she will take kids home with her for two weeks of swimming lessons.
So I got up this morning, bathed and shaved my legs. I dressed in my most comfortable denim skirt. Then I began tidying my house - what I refer to as my Weekly Home Blessing Hour. After my house was thoroughly blessed I did a load of laundry and took out some chicken for supper.
Now sitting here with a cup of tea (and trying not to whine about my miserable cold), I'm relaxing and enjoying my fresh, clean smelling house.
In these few remaining quiet moments, I thought I should blog something.
Something profound.
...
Ok, I'll settle for just blogging something.
Enjoy your Monday holiday!
Saturday, July 29, 2006
My 31st post
I know I haven't posted much on here. You might think I have nothing say. Quite the contrary, actually. I have so much to say.
But things happen. Life happens.
And before you know it, the summer is half gone. Hard to believe, but easy to predict.
Writing is already starting to pick up with two assignments handed to me this week. I am also being tapped for several Fringe Festival reviews next week for the SP. How exciting! Been so long since I've been to a play, I think I'm going through withdrawal.
I've started playing around with some fiction and believe it or not I have a story AND a character that I like. At the same time. Even a plot. Conflict, too! If I'm not careful I might just have a story on my hands.
Other musings...
Life is so precious. So fragile. So fleeting. One minute things are fine and the next a bomb goes off (whether real or metaphorical) and the life you knew is suddenly dark and partially in rubble.
Getting through those dark times is no easy task. In my life recovery has two key ingredients - faith and people. Faith gives you hope - in the face of dark odds. And people keep you sane.
Both light the way to a better tomorrow. Happily, God has filled my life with both.
But things happen. Life happens.
And before you know it, the summer is half gone. Hard to believe, but easy to predict.
Writing is already starting to pick up with two assignments handed to me this week. I am also being tapped for several Fringe Festival reviews next week for the SP. How exciting! Been so long since I've been to a play, I think I'm going through withdrawal.
I've started playing around with some fiction and believe it or not I have a story AND a character that I like. At the same time. Even a plot. Conflict, too! If I'm not careful I might just have a story on my hands.
Other musings...
Life is so precious. So fragile. So fleeting. One minute things are fine and the next a bomb goes off (whether real or metaphorical) and the life you knew is suddenly dark and partially in rubble.
Getting through those dark times is no easy task. In my life recovery has two key ingredients - faith and people. Faith gives you hope - in the face of dark odds. And people keep you sane.
Both light the way to a better tomorrow. Happily, God has filled my life with both.
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
My muse
Once in a while my muse surprises even me. This from today... (sorry, my muse doesn't do punctuation some days).
standing on a slippery rock, jutting out of the ocean. i stand defiantly in the face of the relentless waves and intense wind. the waves have been disturbed from their normal ebb and flow, instead they hurl themselves at the shore with thunderous crashes. the frothing water surrounds me, licking at my feet, like a hungry predator. i have fallen off my perch more times than i can count. my body is bruised and scarred from the tide's tumult and it's latest angry attack.
but i will not be removed from my perch for more than the time it takes to climb back on. though sometimes it may take a lifetime, the process of struggling back upon the rock is the only thing that gives me hope. the promise that i will stand with the storm behind me and the calmed waves offering a gentle bed for the setting sun. it's a picture i keep in my mind for the days of the darkest storms - for the days when i cling to my rock until my fingers ache, my knees and elbows bloody from the surf's constand pounding.
it will be calm again, i know. the sun is still behind those angry clouds, ready to shine it's brilliance like a precious jewel to those who have yearn to see it, and ached to feel it's gentle warmth.
it will be calm again...
standing on a slippery rock, jutting out of the ocean. i stand defiantly in the face of the relentless waves and intense wind. the waves have been disturbed from their normal ebb and flow, instead they hurl themselves at the shore with thunderous crashes. the frothing water surrounds me, licking at my feet, like a hungry predator. i have fallen off my perch more times than i can count. my body is bruised and scarred from the tide's tumult and it's latest angry attack.
but i will not be removed from my perch for more than the time it takes to climb back on. though sometimes it may take a lifetime, the process of struggling back upon the rock is the only thing that gives me hope. the promise that i will stand with the storm behind me and the calmed waves offering a gentle bed for the setting sun. it's a picture i keep in my mind for the days of the darkest storms - for the days when i cling to my rock until my fingers ache, my knees and elbows bloody from the surf's constand pounding.
it will be calm again, i know. the sun is still behind those angry clouds, ready to shine it's brilliance like a precious jewel to those who have yearn to see it, and ached to feel it's gentle warmth.
it will be calm again...
Friday, July 07, 2006
Happy Holidays aka Our First Family Holiday
Ever have one of those smile to yourself for no reason kind of moments?
I'm in the middle of two weeks vacation. I've taken time off from my out of home work (is there such a thing as vacationing form in home work, I wonder...) and since I have no articles to work on, it's basically an involuntary vacation on that end.
So my husband and I and our two kids headed for Regina last Wednesday so we could travel with my brother-in-law and mother-in-law toward Lethbridge for a family wedding. Please no one explain to me the difference in time that would have been saved had we simply travelled straight to Lethbridge from here.
After several days of swimming in the pool at Lethbridge Lodge we were off to the mountains. Our kids were psyched. They had never seen the mountains up close and personal before and we planned to spend two days hiking in Banff.
The kids were disappointed our hotel didn't have a pool. I, on the other hand, after several swimming sessions in Lethbridge felt relieved! It did have an outdoor hot tub, however. We could sit and relax in hot bubbling water while revelling in the mountain scenery surrounding us.
Watching our kids faces as we drove toward these mammoth majestic peaks was a special kind of joy. They loved it. I've never heard so many "oh cool!" or "wows" before.
After two days in Canmore, we headed to Calgary to stay with friends. It was such an encouragement to reconnect with old friends. We got to meet their son who was just about to turn two. The kids had a blast together. The older kids (the husbands) had fun playing with their new X-box as well.
The next day we went to Heritage Park in Calgary. We enjoyed walking through their living historical exhibits. Workers wander through the park dressed in period costumes. They had my pity as that day neared almost 30 degrees. I have newfound respect for my ancestors - wearing long skirts and sleeves in blazing heat while warming the house further with cooking and warming water for cleaning.
After a trip on their steam train and their paddle boat we happily hopped back in our air-conditioned car for the trip to Hussar to stay with more friends.
Staying on a farm was quite the treat for Logan. Our friends don't farm themselves, but there is a lot of farming heritage there. They joyfully showed our budding young farmer around.
The next day (Thursday) we drove through rain to Drumheller to tour the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum. Despite the crowds it was a fascinating. After all that walking we basically fell into the car for the last four hours home.
I got to know my kids so well during this last week. So many aspects of their personality that I never noticed before. It was so wonderful to see.
I also enjoyed the change of pace. The absence of the normal routines of life, bring a rejuvenation I'd forgotten existed. I found myself smiling to myself for no reason frequently. In fact, I think I shall continue to do so from time to time as I remember the laughs, tears, fun and relaxation.
Perhaps I'll post some pictures in the coming weeks.
And we're not done yet. Next Thursday we will drive to Dauphin. Friday we head to Winnipeg for another family wedding. Saturday we return to Dauhpin. The following day we will drive to Saskatoon and possibly to Biggar to meet my mom. The kids are going to my mom for two weeks for swimming lessons. I have a feeling they may need the down time from all the activity!
Til next time...
I'm in the middle of two weeks vacation. I've taken time off from my out of home work (is there such a thing as vacationing form in home work, I wonder...) and since I have no articles to work on, it's basically an involuntary vacation on that end.
So my husband and I and our two kids headed for Regina last Wednesday so we could travel with my brother-in-law and mother-in-law toward Lethbridge for a family wedding. Please no one explain to me the difference in time that would have been saved had we simply travelled straight to Lethbridge from here.
After several days of swimming in the pool at Lethbridge Lodge we were off to the mountains. Our kids were psyched. They had never seen the mountains up close and personal before and we planned to spend two days hiking in Banff.
The kids were disappointed our hotel didn't have a pool. I, on the other hand, after several swimming sessions in Lethbridge felt relieved! It did have an outdoor hot tub, however. We could sit and relax in hot bubbling water while revelling in the mountain scenery surrounding us.
Watching our kids faces as we drove toward these mammoth majestic peaks was a special kind of joy. They loved it. I've never heard so many "oh cool!" or "wows" before.
After two days in Canmore, we headed to Calgary to stay with friends. It was such an encouragement to reconnect with old friends. We got to meet their son who was just about to turn two. The kids had a blast together. The older kids (the husbands) had fun playing with their new X-box as well.
The next day we went to Heritage Park in Calgary. We enjoyed walking through their living historical exhibits. Workers wander through the park dressed in period costumes. They had my pity as that day neared almost 30 degrees. I have newfound respect for my ancestors - wearing long skirts and sleeves in blazing heat while warming the house further with cooking and warming water for cleaning.
After a trip on their steam train and their paddle boat we happily hopped back in our air-conditioned car for the trip to Hussar to stay with more friends.
Staying on a farm was quite the treat for Logan. Our friends don't farm themselves, but there is a lot of farming heritage there. They joyfully showed our budding young farmer around.
The next day (Thursday) we drove through rain to Drumheller to tour the Royal Tyrrell Dinosaur Museum. Despite the crowds it was a fascinating. After all that walking we basically fell into the car for the last four hours home.
I got to know my kids so well during this last week. So many aspects of their personality that I never noticed before. It was so wonderful to see.
I also enjoyed the change of pace. The absence of the normal routines of life, bring a rejuvenation I'd forgotten existed. I found myself smiling to myself for no reason frequently. In fact, I think I shall continue to do so from time to time as I remember the laughs, tears, fun and relaxation.
Perhaps I'll post some pictures in the coming weeks.
And we're not done yet. Next Thursday we will drive to Dauphin. Friday we head to Winnipeg for another family wedding. Saturday we return to Dauhpin. The following day we will drive to Saskatoon and possibly to Biggar to meet my mom. The kids are going to my mom for two weeks for swimming lessons. I have a feeling they may need the down time from all the activity!
Til next time...
Friday, June 23, 2006
Coming out of the closet
Hi. My name is Jennifer and I am organizationally challenged. Further, I am the reigning queen of procrastination (watch the crown, eh) and I am highly distractable (who else can play hours of solitaire when you're supposed to be doing laundry or writing or sleeping even...)
Several years ago I realized I needed help. You could hardly walk in my house and to be honest, I had no idea how in the world to keep a house clean and organized. Nor did I have a clue how to cook meals and keep up with the demands of having a husband and kids.
I complained constantly that no one ever helped and the reason my house was such a mess was because no one cared. I pouted and whined until I made everyone - myself included - miserable.
But I found help.
A wonderful lady in North Carolina had started a website and yahoo list called FlyLady. You can visit her website at FlyLady.com.
I have flutter and stumbled and twittered my way along over the years. But only rarely have I have spoken of my deficiency and nor the antidote I found.
FlyLady doesn't tolerate my whining or stinkin' thinkin' as she calls it. She teaches that the most effective way of showing our families how to manage a household is to be an example. She encourages babysteps and not one day life makeovers. Real change takes time and babysteps. Babysteps are principle that can apply in almost every area of life.
I love the system. Even though my inner brat sometimes rebels and things get a little ragged around the edges, for the most part, my house is never more than fifteen minutes worth of messy. My meals are planned, bills paid on time, and usually I can tell you the last time I vacuumed. My dishes are always done and put away and my kitchen sink sparkles almost all the time.
I've discovered through using her system that without an external routine placed on me, I am terrible at establishing my own schedule. I just can't do it. I find myself aimlessly wandering the internet or watching tv or vainly scrubbing a tiny spot of my house while the rest of it falls down in shambles around me.
Slowly I am getting better. I still have yet to master aspects of her system but it's worth the effort. Besides housework done incorrectly still blesses my family (another FlyLady-ism).
And to keep me from getting distracted FlyLady uses a timer. I could write a book on the virtues of timers - especially for distractable kids! God bless timers! For one thing, without them I could never do a load of laundry.
FlyLady also has a wonderful member of her team named Leanne who talks nutrition and food. Leanne's website (savingdinner.com) offers a menu mailer. Each week a new menu is emailed to me with a six complete meals and a shopping list to go with it. I love it. It has forever changed the way I cook and plan meals. No more macaroni and cheese, unless it's a special treat. (how cool is it that my kids think KD is a special occasion? It costs like what? $.50 a box?)
Leanne has menu mailers for all kinds of special diets - including heart healthy or low carb or her latest body clutter (for those who are looking to lose weight). The cost is minimal when compared with how much of my sanity is saved every week. And I never face that dreaded question: What's for supper? without knowing the answer ahead of time. It's like a pop quiz and I've got a cheat sheet in front of me!
Now I look forward to planning meals and cooking each night. I see it as a way to protect my family and bless them.
The best part of FlyLady is the insistence that members love and respect themselves. Fly = Finally Loving Yourself. The best reason to have a clean, tidy home isn't so your neighbours will like you, it's because we deserve it. We deserve to have a house that sparkles because it's our own private retreat - our family's oasis from the world.
I know for some organizing and managing a household can be done with their eyes closed. But not me. I need the encouragement of FlyLady's sage wisdom. And I thank God for her every day.
I just wanted to say how thankful I am that God brought me to FlyLady's website.
Check out FlyLady's and Leanne's websites. You might find something that helps you truly FLY.
Several years ago I realized I needed help. You could hardly walk in my house and to be honest, I had no idea how in the world to keep a house clean and organized. Nor did I have a clue how to cook meals and keep up with the demands of having a husband and kids.
I complained constantly that no one ever helped and the reason my house was such a mess was because no one cared. I pouted and whined until I made everyone - myself included - miserable.
But I found help.
A wonderful lady in North Carolina had started a website and yahoo list called FlyLady. You can visit her website at FlyLady.com.
I have flutter and stumbled and twittered my way along over the years. But only rarely have I have spoken of my deficiency and nor the antidote I found.
FlyLady doesn't tolerate my whining or stinkin' thinkin' as she calls it. She teaches that the most effective way of showing our families how to manage a household is to be an example. She encourages babysteps and not one day life makeovers. Real change takes time and babysteps. Babysteps are principle that can apply in almost every area of life.
I love the system. Even though my inner brat sometimes rebels and things get a little ragged around the edges, for the most part, my house is never more than fifteen minutes worth of messy. My meals are planned, bills paid on time, and usually I can tell you the last time I vacuumed. My dishes are always done and put away and my kitchen sink sparkles almost all the time.
I've discovered through using her system that without an external routine placed on me, I am terrible at establishing my own schedule. I just can't do it. I find myself aimlessly wandering the internet or watching tv or vainly scrubbing a tiny spot of my house while the rest of it falls down in shambles around me.
Slowly I am getting better. I still have yet to master aspects of her system but it's worth the effort. Besides housework done incorrectly still blesses my family (another FlyLady-ism).
And to keep me from getting distracted FlyLady uses a timer. I could write a book on the virtues of timers - especially for distractable kids! God bless timers! For one thing, without them I could never do a load of laundry.
FlyLady also has a wonderful member of her team named Leanne who talks nutrition and food. Leanne's website (savingdinner.com) offers a menu mailer. Each week a new menu is emailed to me with a six complete meals and a shopping list to go with it. I love it. It has forever changed the way I cook and plan meals. No more macaroni and cheese, unless it's a special treat. (how cool is it that my kids think KD is a special occasion? It costs like what? $.50 a box?)
Leanne has menu mailers for all kinds of special diets - including heart healthy or low carb or her latest body clutter (for those who are looking to lose weight). The cost is minimal when compared with how much of my sanity is saved every week. And I never face that dreaded question: What's for supper? without knowing the answer ahead of time. It's like a pop quiz and I've got a cheat sheet in front of me!
Now I look forward to planning meals and cooking each night. I see it as a way to protect my family and bless them.
The best part of FlyLady is the insistence that members love and respect themselves. Fly = Finally Loving Yourself. The best reason to have a clean, tidy home isn't so your neighbours will like you, it's because we deserve it. We deserve to have a house that sparkles because it's our own private retreat - our family's oasis from the world.
I know for some organizing and managing a household can be done with their eyes closed. But not me. I need the encouragement of FlyLady's sage wisdom. And I thank God for her every day.
I just wanted to say how thankful I am that God brought me to FlyLady's website.
Check out FlyLady's and Leanne's websites. You might find something that helps you truly FLY.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Thoughts
I recently came across a statement that made me stop in my tracks. Here it is for all to ponder...
Jesus said to pray for your enemies. He never said you wouldn't have any.
Jesus said to pray for your enemies. He never said you wouldn't have any.
The Afghan mission
Graeme Smith is a reporter with the Globe and Mail. He recently returned from Afghanistan and filed this audio diary. The pictures and his message will make you proud of our soldiers and proud to be Canadian.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/special/audio/smith4.html
God bless our forces wherever they are serving. They are a credit to our nation and they deserve our undying respect, gratitude and praise.
God bless their mission.
Grant them eyes to see the enemy.
Give them wisdom to discern traps and dangers.
Guide them to those who need help and not shy from the danger.
Bless the troops as they bring healing and protection to those who are vulnerable.
Grant them compassion to show mercy when the opportunity arises.
Let them know how much we all appreciate their courage and devotion to duty.
And above all, God, speed them back home to us safe and sound.
I'll say the same prayer for all those who serve in God's army.
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/special/audio/smith4.html
God bless our forces wherever they are serving. They are a credit to our nation and they deserve our undying respect, gratitude and praise.
God bless their mission.
Grant them eyes to see the enemy.
Give them wisdom to discern traps and dangers.
Guide them to those who need help and not shy from the danger.
Bless the troops as they bring healing and protection to those who are vulnerable.
Grant them compassion to show mercy when the opportunity arises.
Let them know how much we all appreciate their courage and devotion to duty.
And above all, God, speed them back home to us safe and sound.
I'll say the same prayer for all those who serve in God's army.
Wednesday, June 21, 2006
Being enough
I fell into the pit of despair last week.
It's hard not to. For one thing, the weather around here has me seriously contemplating my boat-building skills.
If I wanted to experience rain like Vancouver, well, I'd live in Vancouver.
My kids are so disappointed each morning when they wake up and it's raining again. And no matter how times I tell them it's not my department, they continue to file their weather complaints with me.
Add in normal stress and strain of life and it's easy to see why I found myself at the bottom of despair. Sadly, I didn't have the energy to drag my sorry butt out of it, so I chose to remain there for a while.
Slowly, I feel like I am returning to myself. My optimism even made a cameo appearance this morning.
When you look around our society, it's so easy to feel bad about ourselves. Through music, ads, television, movies, news... our society constantly reminds us that we aren't good enough. We aren't young enough, smart enough, funny enough, savvy enough, pretty enough or thin enough.
Further, we don't have enough of this or enough of that. Our house isn't big enough, or our car isn't cool enough. And on and on...
It's hard to just be thankful and content. We have to tune out so much (not to mention act against the inner man Paul talks about in Romans) in order to find joy and contentment in our present circumstances. Most days it's a struggle.
But isn't it encouraging to know that God thinks we're enough. He loved us enough. In fact, He loved us enough to send His only Son to die a tormented death that we could truly live.
That's enough to give me goosebumps. That the God of the universe, who spoke everything into existence takes a remote interest in me, blows me completely away.
Focusing on that may be the key to finding a small slice of contentment this side of heaven.
It's hard not to. For one thing, the weather around here has me seriously contemplating my boat-building skills.
If I wanted to experience rain like Vancouver, well, I'd live in Vancouver.
My kids are so disappointed each morning when they wake up and it's raining again. And no matter how times I tell them it's not my department, they continue to file their weather complaints with me.
Add in normal stress and strain of life and it's easy to see why I found myself at the bottom of despair. Sadly, I didn't have the energy to drag my sorry butt out of it, so I chose to remain there for a while.
Slowly, I feel like I am returning to myself. My optimism even made a cameo appearance this morning.
When you look around our society, it's so easy to feel bad about ourselves. Through music, ads, television, movies, news... our society constantly reminds us that we aren't good enough. We aren't young enough, smart enough, funny enough, savvy enough, pretty enough or thin enough.
Further, we don't have enough of this or enough of that. Our house isn't big enough, or our car isn't cool enough. And on and on...
It's hard to just be thankful and content. We have to tune out so much (not to mention act against the inner man Paul talks about in Romans) in order to find joy and contentment in our present circumstances. Most days it's a struggle.
But isn't it encouraging to know that God thinks we're enough. He loved us enough. In fact, He loved us enough to send His only Son to die a tormented death that we could truly live.
That's enough to give me goosebumps. That the God of the universe, who spoke everything into existence takes a remote interest in me, blows me completely away.
Focusing on that may be the key to finding a small slice of contentment this side of heaven.
Friday, June 16, 2006
Writing Slump
As always happens during the summer months I've hit a writing slump. OI! I hate it. I'd rather be snowed under with barely time to breathe than have nothing to work on.
So I created a new contest for myself.
I've been doing a lot of reading on anxiety disorders (something I've struggled with since childhood). One of the books talks about Embracing the Fear (actually that's the title!) and encourages anxious people to seek out situations that make them nervous - to embrace their fears.
The idea is that anxious people somewhere became uncomfortable with feeling uncomfortable. Being nervous or scared in a situation meant they had to run away and escape. (That pretty much describes me!). To fight this dreaded cycle, the book suggests seeking out feared situations in order to gain more comfort with the unwanted feelings.
So... as I have this major fear of rejection (and it's an occupational hazard when you're a writer), I decided to have fun with this for the summer.
My new goal: over the summer I plan to rack up as many rejection slips as possible. I'll even print them up and post them somewhere. So far I'm up to one. I'll let you know how it's going...
With the first rejection under my belt, I admit, it wasn't nearly as scary now that it's my goal to fail. Kind of takes the sting right out of it!
Should be fun!
So I created a new contest for myself.
I've been doing a lot of reading on anxiety disorders (something I've struggled with since childhood). One of the books talks about Embracing the Fear (actually that's the title!) and encourages anxious people to seek out situations that make them nervous - to embrace their fears.
The idea is that anxious people somewhere became uncomfortable with feeling uncomfortable. Being nervous or scared in a situation meant they had to run away and escape. (That pretty much describes me!). To fight this dreaded cycle, the book suggests seeking out feared situations in order to gain more comfort with the unwanted feelings.
So... as I have this major fear of rejection (and it's an occupational hazard when you're a writer), I decided to have fun with this for the summer.
My new goal: over the summer I plan to rack up as many rejection slips as possible. I'll even print them up and post them somewhere. So far I'm up to one. I'll let you know how it's going...
With the first rejection under my belt, I admit, it wasn't nearly as scary now that it's my goal to fail. Kind of takes the sting right out of it!
Should be fun!
Saturday, June 03, 2006
Terror arrests in Toronto
I always knew this day would come. Thank God it came BEFORE any innocent lives were lost.
CTV story... click here
CNN story... click here
Under banner reading: Canadian police say they have foiled a major "al Qaeda-inspired" bomb plot against targets in and around Toronto.
Twelve male adults and five youths have been arrested. Along with chemicals for explosive production and other weopons they found 3 tons of ammonia nitrate (a common fertilizer). For comparison the Oklahoma City bombing used 1 ton of the same chemical. This group was preparing to attack targets in Toronto.
God bless our police services all across Canada for being so vigilant.
I'll be be on my knees thanking God an awful lot today...
Update: I'm listening live to a news conference on CKOM.com.
CTV story... click here
CNN story... click here
Under banner reading: Canadian police say they have foiled a major "al Qaeda-inspired" bomb plot against targets in and around Toronto.
Twelve male adults and five youths have been arrested. Along with chemicals for explosive production and other weopons they found 3 tons of ammonia nitrate (a common fertilizer). For comparison the Oklahoma City bombing used 1 ton of the same chemical. This group was preparing to attack targets in Toronto.
God bless our police services all across Canada for being so vigilant.
I'll be be on my knees thanking God an awful lot today...
Update: I'm listening live to a news conference on CKOM.com.
Friday, June 02, 2006
Lessons in the dirt
I've spent the last two evenings in my back yard pulilng weeds and cleaning up.
Here are a few things I've learned:
1. Neglect breeds bad weeds and means more work.
Our yard was neglected last fall and this spring. As a result many of the weeds had formed a green jumbled mess. A few small weeds band together quickly to form a stubborn weedy-bush that can only be ripped out with lots of effort. A small amount of work daily, would have prevented this jungle-tangle disaster.
Spiritual principle: Don't neglect studying God's word. It helps in the picking of a few small weeds, as opposed to a complete back-breaking overhaul to remove a deep-rooted problem. Like everything, creating a simple daily habit keeps things looking fabulous without a lot of work.
2. Weeds spread.
Our neighbours moved out of the rental next door and the owner hasn't been able to find anyone to move in. As a result their once well-mannered yard, puts it's feet up on the table with it's work boots on, while it belches and makes other rude noises. The weeds on their side of the fence have contributed to the problem on our side. It took about 45 minutes just to yank out the large weeds on their side.
Spiritual principle: Our lives affect other lives. And other people's sins affect our lives. In fact, their sin can even breed sow sin in our own lives if we let it. Tending our own garden, by dealing with things before they become a big problem protects those around us.
3. It's hard, yucky messy work, but it's worth it.
I am lucky enough to have a wonderful climbing vine that loves the chain link fence in my back yard. The bad part is I rather it didn't grow where it's growing. But for the most part I let it grow and creep and climb in relative peace. Last fall I neglected to yank out all the little vines. It took at least an hour just to rip out all the dead, dried brittle vines from between the metal links of the fence.
Each snap of a branch catapulted a rain storm of little seeds all over me. It was like being sprinkled with thorns. My hair and clothes were coated and my bare arms quickly became itchy and uncomfortable
But the result? A yard that looks infinitely better than it did. Two flower beds are ready for planting and our downstairs tenant can now get to his parking space in the back without the use of a machete.
Spiritual principle: Working on our own sins and bad habits is hard, uncomfortable work. It isn't easy. In fact it's downright difficult. But the end result is so worth it. I reclaimed a yard I can use to relax and enjoy the great outdoors (and grow a few plants). The difficult work we do in our lives creates a life God can use.
4. Mosquitos eventually become bloodthirsty enough to bite despite the bad taste of incest repellant.
Disturbing the grass and other vegetation in my yard was like flicking a switch on a neon sign reading: all you can eat buffet. I had prepared for this by wearing pants and spraying myself with repellant. But the pesky critters eventually worked through my defenses and found a few tender spots - like my ankle (ouch!).
Spiritual principle: Getting rid of sins and bad habits can stir up resistance from those around us and even from the elements of darkness. Satan would love us to continue with our faith gardens a twisted mess of neglect. So don't be surprised when you hear a faint buzz...
5. Getting rid of weedy problems is much harder alone.
Dear hubby was working tonight so I did much of my work by myself. The work was extra exhausting. Although I love the time for introspection it is much more fun when he's helping. Last Saturday we worked together to pull weeds between the concrete blocks that form our patio. We laughed and helped each other. And whenever a large incest freaked me out, I could count on dear hubby to relocate it.
Spiritual principle: The body of Christ is a powerful team. Too bad we often turn on each other, rather than offering a helping hand. Perhaps we are too scared to get smudged and dirty. Perhaps the creepy crawlies in our own yard scare us too much to venture into another's yard and help. So sad, isn't it? When God's family doesn't operate like a family - but a club steeped in superficiality.
That's all the lessons for today. I've shower and lathered lotion on my poor irritated skin. Tomorrow I get to plant flowers and veggies. I'm so excited to have a real live garden this year. I'm praying God will continue to teach me lessons in the dirt.
Here are a few things I've learned:
1. Neglect breeds bad weeds and means more work.
Our yard was neglected last fall and this spring. As a result many of the weeds had formed a green jumbled mess. A few small weeds band together quickly to form a stubborn weedy-bush that can only be ripped out with lots of effort. A small amount of work daily, would have prevented this jungle-tangle disaster.
Spiritual principle: Don't neglect studying God's word. It helps in the picking of a few small weeds, as opposed to a complete back-breaking overhaul to remove a deep-rooted problem. Like everything, creating a simple daily habit keeps things looking fabulous without a lot of work.
2. Weeds spread.
Our neighbours moved out of the rental next door and the owner hasn't been able to find anyone to move in. As a result their once well-mannered yard, puts it's feet up on the table with it's work boots on, while it belches and makes other rude noises. The weeds on their side of the fence have contributed to the problem on our side. It took about 45 minutes just to yank out the large weeds on their side.
Spiritual principle: Our lives affect other lives. And other people's sins affect our lives. In fact, their sin can even breed sow sin in our own lives if we let it. Tending our own garden, by dealing with things before they become a big problem protects those around us.
3. It's hard, yucky messy work, but it's worth it.
I am lucky enough to have a wonderful climbing vine that loves the chain link fence in my back yard. The bad part is I rather it didn't grow where it's growing. But for the most part I let it grow and creep and climb in relative peace. Last fall I neglected to yank out all the little vines. It took at least an hour just to rip out all the dead, dried brittle vines from between the metal links of the fence.
Each snap of a branch catapulted a rain storm of little seeds all over me. It was like being sprinkled with thorns. My hair and clothes were coated and my bare arms quickly became itchy and uncomfortable
But the result? A yard that looks infinitely better than it did. Two flower beds are ready for planting and our downstairs tenant can now get to his parking space in the back without the use of a machete.
Spiritual principle: Working on our own sins and bad habits is hard, uncomfortable work. It isn't easy. In fact it's downright difficult. But the end result is so worth it. I reclaimed a yard I can use to relax and enjoy the great outdoors (and grow a few plants). The difficult work we do in our lives creates a life God can use.
4. Mosquitos eventually become bloodthirsty enough to bite despite the bad taste of incest repellant.
Disturbing the grass and other vegetation in my yard was like flicking a switch on a neon sign reading: all you can eat buffet. I had prepared for this by wearing pants and spraying myself with repellant. But the pesky critters eventually worked through my defenses and found a few tender spots - like my ankle (ouch!).
Spiritual principle: Getting rid of sins and bad habits can stir up resistance from those around us and even from the elements of darkness. Satan would love us to continue with our faith gardens a twisted mess of neglect. So don't be surprised when you hear a faint buzz...
5. Getting rid of weedy problems is much harder alone.
Dear hubby was working tonight so I did much of my work by myself. The work was extra exhausting. Although I love the time for introspection it is much more fun when he's helping. Last Saturday we worked together to pull weeds between the concrete blocks that form our patio. We laughed and helped each other. And whenever a large incest freaked me out, I could count on dear hubby to relocate it.
Spiritual principle: The body of Christ is a powerful team. Too bad we often turn on each other, rather than offering a helping hand. Perhaps we are too scared to get smudged and dirty. Perhaps the creepy crawlies in our own yard scare us too much to venture into another's yard and help. So sad, isn't it? When God's family doesn't operate like a family - but a club steeped in superficiality.
That's all the lessons for today. I've shower and lathered lotion on my poor irritated skin. Tomorrow I get to plant flowers and veggies. I'm so excited to have a real live garden this year. I'm praying God will continue to teach me lessons in the dirt.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)